Shows
The Neon LoungeIMEX Frankfurt Special - Bonus episode with Felicia Asiedu, Marketing Director at CventAs Season 1 of The Neon Lounge draws to an end, we’re joined by the charismatic Felicia Asiedu for a very special recording, live and direct from IMEX Frankfurt!
We share all of our favourite takeaways from the show, discussing our personal highlights, favourite sessions and so much more. From the Google Experience Institute (Xi) CoLaboratory space, to panels with industry legends such as Fay Sharpe and even our experience of the Fun Run, we take you along on our journey.
In short, if you’ve never attended IMEX, we couldn’t recommend it enough! You’ll...
2024-05-2342 min
The Neon LoungeS1.EP12: Carlos Oliveira takes us on a journey from Brazil to Ireland and striving for sustainable change in the industryIn this episode, we're delving into the remarkable journey of Carlos, a true trailblazer in the events industry. From his humble beginnings in the Brazilian countryside to his current global prominence, Carlos shares how his background in theatre and dance ignited his passion for events. We'll explore what drew him to start afresh in Ireland and the challenges he faced with language and cultural barriers along the way.
Carlos also sheds light on how he fosters a sense of belonging in his professional networks, emphasising the value of genuine connections over mere transactions. Through anecdotes, he illustrates...
2024-05-1649 min
The Neon LoungeS1.EP11: Lizzy Eaton on motherhood, finding your niche and founding a events agency with a differenceLizzy joins us in the lounge as we uncover the path that led her to founding Oddity Events and Marketing, which recently celebrated turning 5. Despite setting it up amidst covid, the agency has flourished under Lizzy's leadership, carving a niche in delivering events that drive social change.
We spill the beans on all things motherhood, balancing a busy work schedule and becoming a mum, Lizzy’s insights are nothing short of inspiring. From being on NOWIE’s board of advisors, to starting her career as an event coordinator and becoming head of events and marketing at Portland, we t...
2024-05-0937 min
The Neon LoungeS1.EP10: James Crute on learning whilst working, freelancing and the importance of speaking upTRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains sensitive discussions surrounding mental health and suicide. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek support from a qualified professional or contact a helpline. We have added a link to a great organisation called Music Support in the show notes. Your well-being is important to us.
Join us as we dive into the captivating journey of James Crute, an independent event professional with a decade-long legacy in global live events. From festivals to sporting events, his knack for planning and executing diverse events...
2024-05-0247 min
The Neon LoungeS1.EP9: Nyomi Rose on volunteering, being a social media expert and relocating to AustraliaIn this episode we chat to social media and personal branding expert Nyomi Rose. From navigating the challenges of completing her degree during the COVID era to boldly founding her own company, @WhatNyomiDoes, Nyomi shares the highs, lows, and pivotal moments that have shaped her path.
In our conversation, we delve deep into the importance of volunteering to kickstart your career, adapting to industry trends, and the importance of staying ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of social media. Nyomi also offers invaluable insights into the process of relocating across the globe from the UK to Australia, igniting...
2024-04-2551 min
The Neon LoungeS1.EP8: Tom Stead on the importance of event safeguarding and how to keep a light-hearted outlook on lifeThis week we are joined by the industry’s go-to expert in event safeguarding, Tom Stead. With over 13 years of experience in the field, Tom has worked at some of the UK’s biggest sporting events, venues and local authorities, consulting to event organisers and dedicated to the safety of children, young people, and vulnerable adults.
We have an honest and raw conversation with Tom about the importance of event safeguarding and how to keep a cheerful and light-hearted outlook on life whilst dealing with some hard-hitting topics. We also discuss the escalating need for improved online prote...
2024-04-1844 min
The Neon LoungeS1.EP7: David Beswick on apprenticeships, balancing family life and being a black business ownerIn this episode, Cat and Eloise are joined by the wonderful David Beswick, a seasoned event prof with over two decades of experience in the field.
From his early days as an apprentice to his current role as Director at X3 Solutions, Dave shares his remarkable journey filled with insights, challenges, and unforgettable moments, dishing out advice on everything from creative charging to balancing work and family life.
With hilarious anecdotes, invaluable tips, and even a WILD Christmas party story, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to dive deep into the electrifying world...
2024-04-1153 min
The Neon LoungeS1.EP6: Josh Heyburn on founding and running an events staffing company with strong company valuesTune in to the remarkable Josh Heyburn, Managing Director of the Occasional Group (formerly Festivall Services). With nearly half his life devoted to the events industry and boasting not one but two Event Management degrees, Josh brings a wealth of experience to the conversation.
Outside of work, Josh's passion for live music and entertainment is evident, as he often finds himself immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of gigs and festivals. Additionally, he shares his expertise as a sessional lecturer in Event Management at Canterbury Christ Church University and was recently honoured with the AAA 30 under 30 Award for...
2024-04-0440 min
The Neon LoungeS1EP5: Rob Silver on the evolution of the festivals landscape and transitioning to self-employedEmbark on an exhilarating voyage with our guest, Rob, a Chartered Accountant turned festival aficionado, whose vibrant career has traversed esteemed organisations spanning Tesco to Lovebox Festival, and a remarkable 13-year tenure as Festival Director at MAMA Festivals.
From steering the financial helm at Boardmasters to orchestrating the grandeur of the UEFA Champions League Final, Rob's trajectory is nothing short of dynamic and captivating.
Discover the many facettes of the events industry with the inspiring Rob Silver.
2024-03-2851 min
The Neon LoungeS1.EP4: Tamar Beck on climbing the career ladder and the importance of diversity and inclusion in eventsDive deep into the dynamic realm of event marketing with our captivating guest, Tamar Beck, the visionary CEO and Co-Founder of Gleanin!
Embark on a journey as we uncover the innovative prowess of Gleanin's community marketing platform. Discover how it revolutionises event promotion, effortlessly transforming attendees into enthusiastic advocates!
Drawing from her extensive 15-year tenure as a portfolio director at Reed Exhibitions, Tamar offers invaluable insights and expertise on all things D&I, career progression, starting her own business and her role as Director at Women in Exhibitions.
2024-03-2144 min
The Neon LoungeS1.EP3: Oliver Guy-Watkins on making snow and working in events + filmToday we are joined by the wonderful Oliver Guy-Watkins! Born in Gloucestershire in 1979, proudly carrying the banner of a 70's child, our guest spent their formative years in the vibrant music scene around Bristol during the 90s. At age 20, Oliver moved to London, navigating roles in the music and film industry until pursuing a Fine Art Masters at Central St Martins.
Post-graduation, Oliver dived into film production, founding Hyde Hill, a company now a decade strong, with projects on Sky Arts, and Amazon Prime. In 2023, he brought his expertise to PMY, becoming General Manager to develop their o...
2024-03-1451 min
The Neon LoungeS1.EP2: Harriet Grace on managing mental health and elevating women in eventsHarriet Grace is the Director of Accept Management and an events professional of nearly 20 years.
She is first and foremost a manager of people, always trying to facilitate environments where she and the team around her can deliver at their best. Accept Management has delivered entertainment and production to the Grand National and Epsom Derby for a decade, and Harriet’s own experience also encompasses London 2012, Glasgow 2014 and an extensive variety of corporate, private and public events.
2024-03-0750 min
The Neon LoungeS1.E1: Adam Parry on event sustainability and becoming a successful event speakerAdam Parry spills the beans on all things editorial, event sustainability, becoming an event speaker and so much more. You may recognise the name as the brains behind eventindustrynews.com, Adam has been on the pulse of all things events-related for over a decade.
Whether he's breaking the latest news story, having meaningful conversations with industry experts, or tackling some of the most important challenges facing the industry. Besides being an all-round legend, Adam brings a unique blend of wit and insider knowledge to the table. Outside of the editorial hustle, Adam is a globe-trotter, both for...
2024-02-2946 min
The Neon LoungeIntroduction to The Neon Lounge, designed for Event ProfessionsYour friendly neighbourhood hosts, Cat Kevern and Eloise Newing, set the scene for The Neon Lounge and share their reasons and motivation to start their very own podcast by event professionals for the event industry.
2024-02-2702 min